At the 77th Primetime Emmys broadcast this Sunday, 15-year-old Owen Cooper created history by becoming the youngest male actor to win an Emmy, winning Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for his Netflix series Adolescence. His intense performance as a teen who is accused of murder overshadowed veterans and gave Adolescence six wins. “Who cares if you get embarrassed? Anything can be possible. I was nothing about three years ago, I’m here now,” Cooper said during his Emmy acceptance speech. Cooper broke Scott Jacoby’s 1973 record, which was 16 for That Certain Summer.
Youngest Emmy Winner (Male or Female)
Cooper’s victory at the Emmys this Sunday was a historic moment in the entertainment industry. However, the record for the youngest person to even win an Emmy, regardless of gender, belongs to Roxana Zal. She set the record in 1984 for her performance in Something About Amelia. Scott Jacoby was the previous record holder at 16 years old for his performance in That Certain Summer (1973).
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Youngest Person To Win an Oscar
The Oscars also honour younger stars. Tatum O’Neal is the youngest winner, taking Best Supporting Actress at age 10 in 1974 for Paper Moon’s sweetheart con. Anna Paquin took home the prize at age 11 for The Piano in 1994, her dramatic depth amazing voters. For starring performances, Marlee Matlin took Best Actress at age 21 in 1986 for Children of a Lesser God, and Adrien Brody won Best Actor at age 29 in 2003 for The Pianist.
Youngest Grammy Winner in History
The Grammys honour young musical stars. The Peasall Sisters—Leah (8), Hannah (11), and Sarah (14)—won in 2002 for O Brother, Where Art Thou?’s soundtrack. LeAnn Rimes claimed Best New Artist at 14 in 1997 for “Blue.” Billie Eilish swept four major categories at 18 in 2020, including Album of the Year, setting a youth record. These wins showcase the Grammys’ embrace of young innovators.
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Youngest Golden Globes Winner
Ricky Schroder won New Star of the Year at age 9 in 1980 for The Champ. Rachel Zegler won Best Actress at age 20 in 2022 for West Side Story, one of the youngest individuals to ever receive the award.
Owen Cooper’s Career After Netflix’s Adolescence
Owen Cooper broke history at the Emmys and became part of the new generation of celebrities to gain worldwide attention for their acting prowess at an early age. Since his success with Adolescence, Cooper has already progressed to the next level. He will be featured in the 2026 film Wuthering Heights and the BBC series Film Club.
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